How long will it take Immigration New Zealand to process my visa application?

The time it will take for us to process your application can vary depending on:

the requirements of the immigration instructions you are applying under

the completeness of your application

how easily we can check the information you provide

how well and how quickly you respond to any concerns we raise with you.

Processing times can also vary between offices. When we accept your application, we will either give you a decision, or tell you within 14 days, how long the processing time is predicted to be.

The amount of verification your application requires can affect the amount of time it takes to process your application. Applications that require the most verification; for example work visa or residence applications, typically take the longest to process.

We may find that you need to provide us with further information before we can make a decision on your application, which will also add to the processing time.

If you applied using a paper form, but want to be able to check your status online, you can provide details on your form that will give you an online enquiry option. This will allow you to set up an account on the site and receive updates.

If you contact us through our Online Help system, we will be able to tell you the status of your application.

We are unable to provide information about decisions through email. You may be able to get more detailed information by phone, but decisions will not be discussed until you have been notified in writing.

If you are using an immigration advisor you should also get in touch with them to find out whether they are aware of any problems or delays.

How do I apply for a visa to work in New Zealand?

Which type of visa and you apply for depends on why you want to come here, the skills you have to offer, and how long you want to stay.

Work and live permanently in New Zealand

Skilled Migrant Category

The Skilled Migrant Category is for people who have the skills, qualifications, and experience we need, and who want to live and work permanently in New Zealand.

Work to Residence Category

The Work to Residence Category allows you to get a temporary work visa and as a step towards gaining permanent residence. Applicants may be qualified in occupations that are in demand in New Zealand, or may have exceptional talent in sports or the arts.

Employee of a Relocating Company Category

Work temporarily in New Zealand

Temporary work

We grant temporary work visas to people who have a job offer from a New Zealand employer, people skilled in occupations that are in demand here, people coming here for a particular purpose or event, and people who want to gain work experience or work after studying in New Zealand. Find out about the options for temporary work in New Zealand.

Working holiday

If you’re aged between 18 and 30 years you may be eligible to experience life in New Zealand on a working holiday.

Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Work Category

Our Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Work category is for temporary workers from overseas to work in the horticulture and viticulture industries.

How do I apply for a visa to study in New Zealand?

Everyone who comes to study in New Zealand from overseas must meet certain rules and requirements. If you are coming to New Zealand to study for more than three months, you will need a student visa.

To find out whether you need a visa, whether you'll qualify, and what a student visa will allow you to do, visit Can I study in New Zealand?

Where do I access immigration application forms?

All immigration forms and guides can be accessed (in PDF format) by visiting forms and guides.

Filling in the application forms as requested, and ensuring all relevant information required is included, will help to speed up the processing of your application. Incomplete applications will be returned to the applicant unprocessed.

How do I apply to come to New Zealand as a skilled migrant?

If you’ve got the skills we need and want to make New Zealand your long-term destination, our Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) offers you the opportunity to move to New Zealand to work and live permanently.

How do I apply to come to New Zealand as a partner or parent of a New Zealand resident or citizen?

How do I apply to extend my temporary visa to remain in New Zealand longer?

As you must be on a valid visa at all times while in New Zealand, you must either obtain a further temporary entry visa to remain in New Zealand, or you may depart New Zealand and wait for your residence decision offshore (please advise your immigration officer of your contact details in this case).

To obtain a further visa, you must meet the current requirements as specified in the immigration instructions for the visa type you wish to apply for. Please refer to visit, study, and work, for further information and application forms.

What fees do I have to pay to make an immigration application?

Our office and fees finderwill help you determine your specific application fee. Application fees differ depending on the type of visa you are applying for and your current location.